Darren Ferguson sacked by Preston

Just hours after Brian Laws parted company with Burnley, the directors of Preston decided to terminate the position of Ferguson as manager after a poor run of form leaves them rock-bottom of the Championship.

The club indicated on their website that they felt their Championship standing was under threat and have outlined their desire to appoint a new manager as soon as possible.

The 38-year-old son of Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson arrived at Deepdale in January this year having impressed at Peterborough, but has been unable to prevent Preston from becoming rooted to the bottom of the division, five points from safety.

Preston confirmed Ferguson's sacking in a statement which read: "At a board meeting held today the directors of Preston North End decided to terminate the position of Darren Ferguson as manager.

"The club expressed their appreciation of the efforts made by Darren but felt that the league position represented a significant threat to the club and it was felt that a change of manager might bring better fortune."

Preston have won just five games out of 22 so far this campaign, with Tuesday's defeat at Middlesbrough a loss too many for Ferguson.

The announcement means Ferguson has now been sacked twice in his short managerial career so far, having surprisingly lost his job at Peterborough United in November 2009.